Background: The global construction industry is confronted with persistent challenges including labour shortages, high rates of occupational injury, escalating project costs, and inefficient resource utilisation. The evolution of robotic systems, from remote-controlled machinery to fully autonomous platforms, represents a transformative paradigm shift in civil engineering practice.
Objective: This study evaluates the performance, applicability, and strategic impact of autonomous construction robotic systems across key civil engineering domains, and assesses their potential to reshape future industry practices.
Methods: A systematic literature-based comparative methodology was employed, drawing from peer-reviewed publications (2010–2025). Robotic systems were evaluated across six performance indicators: task completion accuracy, construction efficiency, safety improvement, cost reduction, productivity enhancement, and energy efficiency.
Results: Autonomous systems demonstrated a mean task accuracy improvement of 20.7%, productivity gains of 35–47%, a 66% reduction in workplace injuries, and a 67.7% reduction in cost overruns compared to conventional methods. Limitations including high capital expenditure, adaptability constraints, and skilled labour requirements were also identified.
Conclusion: Autonomous construction robotics holds significant promise for transforming civil engineering practice, improving safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Strategic investment, ethical governance, and workforce reskilling are essential preconditions for broad adoption.